Polish mums meet up to offer support

Published on Wednesday 13 May 2009 09:57

A SUPPORT group has been set-up for Polish mothers living in Midlothian.

English lessons and the chance to meet compatriots in the same position as themselves will be offered at the Mayfield group.

The NHS Lothian Polish Support Group, based at Midlothian Sure Start Family Reach Out Centre, was set-up after health workers reported many eastern European mothers feeling isolated.

Health visitor Aileen Banks said: "I had been visiting a Polish family who had a baby and the mum spoke no English. I had to take an interpreter with me so that I could communicate with her.

"When we got to the last appointment she burst into tears and asked me to come back. She didn't know anyone and had been looking forward to my visits.

"That's why we decided to set up the support group, to give these mums a chance to meet each other. Sometimes they have no family or friends nearby and can be very isolated."

For more information phone [phone].